Fire Department personnel responded to a reported structure fire at the "Starlighter" Apartments. First arriving crews found dark smoke stained windows on the backside of the second story apartment. The first arriving fire crew attempted to gain access through the front door to begin a search for any possible trapped victims. However, heavy fire, heat and smoke which was present throughout most of the apartment, hampered firefighters initial efforts to search for a victim. Crews were able to make entry into the apartment after attacking the fire and forcing intense heat and smoke out first. The victim was then found near the living room - deceased.

The fire was kept in check to the apartment of origin. Water and smoke damage extended into a unit below and next to the apartment on fire. Investigators remain on scene to determine the cause of the fire. The victim's name and identity will not be disclosed pending communications to the next kin. The victim will be in the custody of the Yakima County Coroner until further notice. It is unknown at this point if a working smoke detector was in operation, due to the severity of fire damage to the apartment unit. Firefighters could not hear a smoke detector sounding in the unit on fire, upon their arrival and throughout the event.

The Yakima Fire Department would like to remind all residents to test their smoke detectors to make sure they function properly. We encourage home owners and landlords to install smoke detectors in all rooms to prevent delay in early detection of a fire in a residence. If you have any questions or concerns about your smoke detectors or the lack thereof please contact the Yakima Fire Department at 575-6060 for assistance.